Powder container

Abstract

To provide a powder container that can prevent powder from unexpectedly leaking out. [Solution] An embodiment of the present invention provides a powder container comprising a container body, a discharge mechanism that partitions the inside of the container body in the vertical direction, and a lid that is attached to the container body so as to be able to open and close the upper end opening of the container body. The discharge mechanism comprises a partition wall having a first through hole and a plurality of second through holes, and a valve member provided so as to be elastically displaceable in the vertical direction relative to the partition wall. The valve member comprises a movable base superimposed on the partition wall below the partition wall, a push-in projection extending upward from the movable base and projecting into the applicator storage space through the first through hole, and a plurality of opening and closing projections extending upward from the movable base and opening and closing the second through holes individually in accordance with the vertical movement of the valve member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a powder container.

Background Art

[0002] A powder container is known that includes a container body forming a powder storage space, a partition wall having a discharge hole formed therein for communicating the inside and outside of the powder storage space, and a lid that is detachably attached to the container body so as to cover the partition wall and forms an applicator storage space for storing an applicator between the lid and the partition wall. In this type of powder container, since the discharge hole is always open, there is a possibility that powder may enter the applicator storage space when the lid is closed. Therefore, there are problems such as the powder that has entered the applicator storage space adhering to the applicator unexpectedly or flying out when the lid is opened. There is also a problem that sebum and powder adhering to the applicator adhere to the powder in the powder storage space through the discharge hole.

[0003] In order to solve the above-described problems, a configuration is known in which the discharge hole is opened and closed in conjunction with the operation of a button portion provided on the bottom wall of the container body (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the above-described conventional technology, since the button portion is exposed outside the container body, for example, when the button portion is unexpectedly pressed during carrying, there is still a possibility that powder may leak into the applicator storage space through the discharge hole.

[0006] The present invention provides a powder container capable of suppressing unexpected leakage of powder. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the above problems, the present invention employs the following embodiments. A powder container according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a bottomed cylindrical container body, a dispensing mechanism that partitions the inside of the container body vertically so as to form a powder storage space for storing powder between itself and the bottom wall of the container body, and a lid that forms an applicator storage space for storing an applicator between itself and the dispensing mechanism and is attached to the container body so as to be able to open and close the upper end opening of the container body. The dispensing mechanism comprises a partition wall having a first through-hole located in the center and a plurality of second through-holes located around the first through-hole through which powder can pass, and a valve member provided in the powder storage space so as to be elastically displaceable vertically relative to the partition wall. The valve member comprises a movable base superimposed on the partition wall below the partition wall, a push-in projection extending upward from the movable base and projecting into the applicator storage space through the first through-hole, and a plurality of opening and closing projections extending upward from the movable base and opening and closing the second through-holes individually in accordance with the vertical movement of the valve member.

[0008] In this embodiment, by pressing down the push-in projection via the applicator, the entire valve member is elastically displaced downward, causing the opening / closing projection to open the second through-hole (valve open state). This allows the powder storage space and the applicator storage space to communicate through the second through-hole. In this state, by shaking the powder container, for example, in an up-and-down direction, the powder scattered in the powder storage space adheres to the applicator through the second through-hole. This makes it possible to remove the powder from the powder storage space. On the other hand, when the pushing force acting on the valve member via the push-in projection is released, the valve member elastically returns upward relative to the partition wall. This closes the second through-hole with the opening / closing projection. As a result, communication between the powder storage space and the applicator storage space is blocked. In other words, in the powder container of this embodiment, when not in use, the second through-hole is closed by the opening / closing projection, so it is possible to prevent powder from unexpectedly leaking from the powder storage space into the applicator storage space. In particular, in the powder container of this embodiment, when the lid is closed, the applicator storage space is covered by the lid, and therefore the indentation projection is also covered by the lid. That is, when the lid is closed, the indentation projection is not exposed to the outside of the powder container, so it is possible to prevent the indentation projection from being pressed unexpectedly when the powder container is not in use. As a result, it is possible to more reliably prevent powder from unexpectedly leaking into the applicator storage space.

[0009] In the powder container according to the above embodiment, it is preferable that the amount of the push-in projection protruding from the movable base is greater than the amount of the opening / closing projection protruding from the movable base. According to this embodiment, the amount of indentation of the indentation projection can be kept to a minimum while opening the second through-hole. This improves operability.

[0010] In the powder container according to the above embodiment, the movable base comprises a hub portion that overlaps the first through hole when viewed from above and is provided with the push-in projection, a rim portion that surrounds the hub portion when viewed from above and is provided with the hub portion, and a plurality of spoke portions that extend radially from the hub portion to connect the hub portion and the rim portion, each of which is provided with a plurality of opening and closing projections, and it is preferable that the plurality of second through holes are provided in a plurality at intervals along the spoke portions at positions that overlap each of the plurality of spoke portions when viewed from above and is provided with the spoke portions. According to this embodiment, the pressing force acting on the push-in projection is easily transmitted evenly to the opening and closing projection via the hub and spoke portions. Therefore, the operational reliability of the discharge mechanism can be improved.

[0011] In the powder container according to the above embodiment, it is preferable that the upper surface of the spoke portion is formed as an inclined surface that extends downward toward adjacent spoke portions. According to this embodiment, powder is less likely to get caught between the spoke portion and the lower surface of the partition wall during the transition of the discharge valve from the open state to the closed state. This improves the operational reliability of the discharge mechanism.

[0012] In the powder container according to the above embodiment, it is preferable that at least the hub portion and the spoke portion of the movable base are provided with reinforcing portions that protrude downward. According to this embodiment, deformation of the hub and spoke portions themselves due to the pressing force acting on the indentation projection is suppressed, and the entire valve member becomes more susceptible to elastic displacement. Therefore, the operational reliability of the discharge mechanism can be improved.

[0013] In the powder container according to the above embodiment, it is preferable that at least one of the opening / closing projection and the second through-hole is formed in a tapered shape such that the diameter gradually increases as it goes downwards. According to this embodiment, the opening / closing projection easily enters the second through-hole during the transition from the open valve state to the closed valve state. Furthermore, when the discharge valve is in the closed state, the contact point between the opening / closing projection and the inner surface of the second through-hole is easily stabilized. This improves the operational reliability of the discharge mechanism.

[0014] In the powder container according to the above embodiment, it is preferable that the discharge mechanism comprises a middle tray having a partition wall and fitted into the peripheral wall of the container body, and a discharge valve having a valve member and supported by the middle tray below the partition wall. According to this embodiment, the surface of the dispensing mechanism facing the applicator storage space is formed only by the inner tray. This suppresses the occurrence of steps or other irregularities on the surface of the dispensing mechanism facing the applicator storage space, thereby suppressing the residue of powder in the applicator storage space. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to an aspect of the present invention, it is possible to suppress the unexpected leakage of powder. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] This is a partial cross-sectional view of a powder container according to the first embodiment, showing the lid in a closed state. [Figure 2] This is a plan view of the powder container according to the first embodiment, showing the lid in the open position. [Figure 3]It is a plan view of the discharge valve according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a bottom view of the discharge valve according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a cross-sectional view corresponding to the V-V line of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] It is an operation explanatory view for explaining the usage method of the powder container according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a partial cross-sectional view of the powder container according to the second embodiment showing the state where the lid body is in the closed state.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. (First Embodiment) The powder container 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes a container body 11, a lid body 12, and a discharge mechanism 13. The container body 11, the lid body 12, and the discharge mechanism 13 are all formed in a cylindrical or disc shape arranged coaxially with a common axis. Hereinafter, the common axis is referred to as the container axis O, and the direction along the container axis O is referred to as the vertical direction. Of the vertical direction, the side of the top wall 24 of the lid body 12 is the upper side, and the side of the bottom wall 21 of the container body 11 is the lower side. Also, the direction intersecting the container axis O as viewed from the vertical direction is referred to as the radial direction, and the direction orbiting around the container axis O is referred to as the circumferential direction.

[0018] The container body 11 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape arranged coaxially with the container axis O. Powder is stored inside the container body 11. Examples of the powder include loose powder, baby powder, and the like. The container body 11 includes a bottom wall 21 and a container peripheral wall 22 extending upward from the outer peripheral edge of the bottom wall 21. A male screw portion 22a is formed at the upper part of the container peripheral wall 22.

[0019] The lid 12 is detachably attached to the container body 11. The lid 12 is formed in a top-cylindrical shape and is arranged coaxially with the container axis O. Specifically, the lid 12 comprises a top wall 24 and a lid peripheral wall 25 extending downward from the outer peripheral edge of the top wall 24. A female threaded portion 25a is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the lid peripheral wall 25. The lid 12 is attached to the container body 11 so as to be able to open and close the upper end opening of the container body 11 by screwing the female threaded portion 25a to the male threaded portion 22a of the container body 11. However, the lid 12 only needs to be able to open and close the upper end opening of the container body 11, and may be attached to the container body 11 so as to be rotatable via, for example, a hinge portion. In the illustrated example, a packing 26 is fixed to the lower surface of the top wall 24.

[0020] The dispensing mechanism 13 is provided on the container body 11 so as to divide the inside of the container body 11 in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the space inside the container body 11 below the dispensing mechanism 13 constitutes a powder storage space S1 in which powder is contained. That is, the powder storage space S1 is defined by the bottom wall 21, the lower part of the container peripheral wall 22, and the dispensing mechanism 13. On the other hand, the space inside the container body 11 above the dispensing mechanism 13 constitutes an applicator storage space S2 in which an applicator P (e.g., a puff, etc.) is contained. That is, the applicator storage space S2 is defined by the upper part of the container peripheral wall 22, the dispensing mechanism 13, and the lid 12. The vertical position of the dispensing mechanism 13 relative to the container body 11 can be changed as appropriate. For example, the dispensing mechanism 13 may be provided at the upper opening edge of the container body 11. In this case, the applicator storage space S2 is defined by the dispensing mechanism 13 and the lid 12.

[0021] As shown in Figure 1, the discharge mechanism 13 controls the discharge of powder from the powder containment space S1. The discharge mechanism 13 includes a discharge valve 31 and a tray 32. The discharge valve 31 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape and is arranged coaxially with the container axis O. The discharge valve 31 comprises a fitting cylinder 41, an outer flange portion 42, an inner flange portion 43, an elastic piece 44, and a valve member 45.

[0022] The fitting cylinder 41 is formed in a cylindrical shape and is arranged coaxially with the container axis O. The fitting cylinder 41 is fitted into the container peripheral wall 22. As shown in Figures 1 to 3, positioning ribs 41a and regulating projections 41b are formed on the inner circumferential surface of the fitting cylinder 41. The positioning ribs 41a protrude radially inward at the lower part of the fitting cylinder 41 and extend vertically. Multiple positioning ribs 41a are provided at intervals in the circumferential direction. The regulating projections 41b protrude radially inward from the middle part of the fitting cylinder 41 in the vertical direction. Multiple regulating projections 41b are provided at intervals in the circumferential direction. In this embodiment, the positioning ribs 41a and regulating projections 41b are provided alternately in the circumferential direction.

[0023] As shown in Figure 1, the outer flange portion 42 protrudes radially outward from the upper edge of the fitting cylinder 41. The discharge valve 31 is restricted from moving downward relative to the container body 11 by the outer flange portion 42 abutting against the upper edge of the container peripheral wall 22 from above. The inner flange portion 43 protrudes radially inward from the lower end edge of the fitting cylinder 41. The outer flange portion 42 and the inner flange portion 43 may extend continuously around the entire circumference of the fitting cylinder 41, or they may be formed intermittently in the circumferential direction relative to the fitting cylinder 41.

[0024] As shown in Figures 1, 3, and 4, the elastic pieces 44 connect the inner flange portion 43 and the valve member 45. Multiple elastic pieces 44 are provided on the inner periphery of the inner flange portion 43 at circumferential intervals. Each elastic piece 44 extends radially inward while being bent in a crank shape in the circumferential direction. Each elastic piece 44 is configured to be elastically deformable mainly in the vertical direction.

[0025] The valve member 45 is positioned in the portion enclosed by the fitting cylinder 41 (inner flange portion 43) in a plan view. The valve member 45 is provided so as to be elastically displaceable vertically relative to the fitting cylinder 41 (container body 11) as the elastic deformation of the elastic piece 44 occurs. The valve member 45 includes a movable base 51, a push-in projection 52, an opening / closing projection 53, and a reinforcing portion 54.

[0026] The movable base 51 comprises a hub portion 61, a rim portion 62, and a plurality of spoke portions 63. The hub portion 61 is provided in the part that overlaps with the container axis O in a plan view. The rim portion 62 is formed in an annular shape and is arranged coaxially with the container axis O. In a plan view, the rim portion 62 surrounds the hub portion 61. The radial inner ends of each elastic piece 44 are connected to the outer circumferential surface of the rim portion 62. As a result, the valve member 45 is provided so as to be elastically displaceable vertically within the powder containment space S1 relative to the container body 11.

[0027] Each spoke portion 63 connects the outer circumferential surface of the hub portion 61 to the inner circumferential surface of the rim portion 62. Each spoke portion 63 extends radially from the hub portion 61. In the cross-sectional view perpendicular to the radial direction shown in Figure 5, both the upper and lower surfaces of each spoke portion 63 are formed as inclined surfaces that extend in a direction that approaches each other as they move outward from the center in the circumferential direction. Specifically, the upper surface of each spoke portion 63 is formed in an upwardly projecting arc shape. On the other hand, the lower surface of each spoke portion 63 is formed in a downwardly projecting triangular shape. However, the shapes of the upper and lower surfaces of each spoke portion 63 can be changed as appropriate, such as making the upper surface triangular and the lower surface arc-shaped.

[0028] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the portions located between adjacent spokes 63 constitute through holes 51a that penetrate the movable base 51 in the vertical direction. That is, each through hole 51a is formed in a fan shape, with its circumferential width gradually increasing as it moves radially outward.

[0029] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the push-in projection 52 protrudes upward from the hub portion 61 of the movable base 51. In this embodiment, the push-in projection 52 is formed in a cylindrical shape and is arranged coaxially with the container axis O. Multiple opening / closing projections 53 are formed on each spoke portion 63, spaced apart in the radial direction (the direction in which the spoke portion 63 extends). The opening / closing projections 53 are formed in a cylindrical shape that extends upward from the spoke portion 63. In this embodiment, the amount of protrusion of the push-in projection 52 from the movable base 51 is greater than the amount of protrusion of the opening / closing projection 53 from the movable base 51. In this case, it is preferable that the length of the push-in projection 52 is at least twice the length of the opening / closing projection 53. Also, in this embodiment, the outer diameter of the opening / closing projection 53 is smaller than the outer diameter of the push-in projection 52. However, the amount of protrusion and outer diameter of the push-in projection 52 and the opening / closing projection 53 can be changed as appropriate.

[0030] As shown in Figures 1 and 4, the reinforcing portion 54 reinforces the movable base 51. The reinforcing portion 54 protrudes downward from at least the hub portion 61 and each spoke portion 63 of the movable base 51. In the illustrated example, the reinforcing portion 54 extends across the hub portion 61 and in the direction of extension of each spoke portion 63, thereby extending continuously between the hub portion 61 and each spoke portion 63.

[0031] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the inner tray 32 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape and is arranged coaxially with the container axis O. In this embodiment, the inner tray 32 is indirectly supported by the container body 11 via the discharge valve 31. Specifically, the inner tray 32 comprises a mounting cylinder 71 and a partition wall 72.

[0032] The mounting cylinder 71 is positioned coaxially with the container axis O. The mounting cylinder 71 is fitted into the lower part of the fitting cylinder 41. Positioning grooves 71a are formed on the outer circumferential surface of the mounting cylinder 71. The positioning grooves 71a open on the outer circumferential surface of the mounting cylinder 71 and extend along the entire length of the mounting cylinder 71 in the vertical direction. Multiple positioning grooves 71a are provided at circumferential intervals corresponding to the positioning ribs 41a. The mounting cylinder 71 is fitted into the fitting cylinder 41 with the corresponding positioning ribs 41a housed in the positioning grooves 71a, thereby restricting its circumferential movement relative to the discharge valve 31. In addition, when fitted into the fitting cylinder 41, a restricting projection 41b approaches or abuts against the upper end edge of the mounting cylinder 71 from above. The upward movement of the inner plate 32 relative to the discharge valve 31 is restricted when the mounting cylinder 71 abuts against the restricting projection 41b from below.

[0033] The partition wall 72 is formed in a disc shape and is arranged coaxially with the container axis O. The outer edge of the partition wall 72 is connected to the inner surface of the partition wall 72 along its entire circumference. Therefore, the partition wall 72 is provided inside the mounting cylinder 71 so as to partition the inside of the container body 11 in the vertical direction. The partition wall 72 is provided so as to overlap the valve member 45 in a plan view. The upper surface of the partition wall 72 is exposed to the applicator storage space S2. The upper surface of the partition wall 72 functions as a mounting surface on which the applicator P is placed.

[0034] The partition wall 72 has a first through-hole 74 and a plurality of second through-holes 75. The first through-hole 74 penetrates the partition wall 72 vertically at a position that overlaps with the container axis O in a plan view. Specifically, the first through-hole 74 is formed at a position that overlaps with the push-in projection 52 in a plan view. The first through-hole 74 is formed with a uniform inner diameter over its entire length in the vertical direction, for example. The inner diameter of the first through-hole 74 is formed to a size that allows the push-in projection 52 to be inserted. In this embodiment, it is preferable that the inner diameter of the first through-hole 74 is formed to be greater than or equal to the diameter of the push-in projection 52 and less than the diameter of the hub portion 61. In this case, it is more preferable that the outer diameter of the push-in projection 52 is set such that, when inserted into the first through-hole 74, powder does not flow between the outer circumferential surface of the push-in projection 52 and the inner circumferential surface of the first through-hole 74. Furthermore, the push-in projection 52 may be fitted into the first through-hole 74 if it is movable within the first through-hole 74 by a push-in operation from above.

[0035] The aforementioned push-in projection 52 protrudes above the partition wall 72 (into the applicator storage space S2) through the first through-hole 74. The push-in projection 52 is provided so as to be able to move up and down within the first through-hole 74 in accordance with the up and down movement of the valve member 45.

[0036] Each second through-hole 75 is formed in a position that overlaps with each opening / closing projection 53 in a plan view. Specifically, multiple second through-holes 75 are provided at intervals in the extending direction (radial direction) of the spoke portion 63, in a position that overlaps with the spoke portion 63 in a plan view. If the second through-holes 75 formed along one spoke portion 63 are referred to as a through-hole row 77, then in this embodiment, multiple through-hole rows 77 are formed at intervals in the circumferential direction. In the illustrated example, the second through-holes 75 are arranged alternately in the radial direction between adjacent through-hole rows 77.

[0037] Each second through-hole 75 is formed to a size into which the opening / closing projection 53 can be fitted. Specifically, each second through-hole 75 is formed in a tapered shape, with the inner diameter gradually increasing as it goes downwards. In this case, the minimum inner diameter of each second through-hole 75 is formed to be equal to the outer diameter of the opening / closing projection 53. However, the minimum inner diameter of the second through-hole 75 may be formed to be less than or equal to the outer diameter of the opening / closing projection 53.

[0038] The upper end surface of the opening / closing projection 53 described above protrudes above the partition wall 72 through the corresponding second through-hole 75. The opening / closing projection 53 is provided so as to be able to open and close within the second through-hole 75 in accordance with the vertical movement of the valve member 45. Specifically, the opening / closing projection 53 is able to move forward and backward within the second through-hole 75 in accordance with the vertical movement of the valve member 45. However, the amount of displacement of the opening / closing projection 53 can be changed as appropriate, as long as the configuration allows for the opening and closing of the second through-hole 75 in accordance with the vertical movement of the valve member 45. The upper end surface of the opening / closing projection 53 may be located within the corresponding second through-hole 75 (below the upper surface of the partition wall 72).

[0039] Here, the discharge mechanism 13 switches between communication and isolation between the powder storage space S1 and the applicator storage space S2 through the second through-hole 75 by the vertical movement of the valve member 45 relative to the inner tray 32. In other words, the discharge mechanism 13 switches between the open state and the closed state of the discharge valve 31 by the vertical movement of the valve member 45. In the closed state of the discharge valve 31 shown in Figures 1 and 5, the movable base 51 is in close proximity to or in contact with the lower surface of the partition wall 72 from below. In this case, it is preferable that at least the hub portion 61 is in contact with the lower surface of the partition wall 72, thereby closing the lower end opening of the first through hole 74. The push-in projection 52 also protrudes upward from the partition wall 72 through the first through hole 74. In the closed state of the discharge valve 31, the opening / closing projection 53 is in close contact with the inner surface (or opening edge) of the second through hole 75, thereby blocking communication between the powder storage space S1 and the applicator storage space S2 through the second through hole 75. In the illustrated example, the opening / closing projection 53 is in close contact with the upper end opening edge of the second through hole 75 at its upper end. In the closed state of the discharge valve 31, the push-in projection 52 may also be in close contact with the inner surface of the first through hole 74. Furthermore, when the discharge valve 31 is closed, the elastic piece 44 may be at its natural length or biasing the movable base 51 upward.

[0040] In the open state of the discharge valve 31 shown in Figure 6, the movable base 51 is spaced downward relative to the lower surface of the partition wall 72. In this case, the opening / closing projection 53 retracts downward from the second through-hole 75, thereby connecting the powder storage space S1 and the applicator storage space S2 through the second through-hole 75. However, in the open state of the discharge valve 31, as long as the powder storage space S1 and the applicator storage space S2 are connected through the second through-hole 75, the opening / closing projection 53 may be located inside the second through-hole 75. That is, in the open state of the discharge valve 31, the valve member 45 only needs to be displaced to the extent that a gap is formed between the opening / closing projection 53 and the inner surface of the second through-hole 75 through which powder can pass.

[0041] Next, the method of using the powder container 1 described above will be explained. In the following explanation, the initial state will be defined as the state in which the lid 12 is closed and the discharge valve 31 is closed, as shown in Figure 1. Note that the biasing force (elastic modulus) of the applicator P stored in the applicator storage space S2 is smaller than the biasing force (elastic modulus) of the elastic piece 44. Therefore, in the initial state shown in Figure 1, the applicator P is stored in the applicator storage space S2 in an elastically deformed state.

[0042] To remove powder from the powder container 1, first, as shown in Figures 1 and 6, the lid 12 is moved from the closed state to the open state. Specifically, when the lid 12 is rotated to one side in the circumferential direction relative to the container body 11, the lid 12 rises while rotating to that side in the circumferential direction. This causes the lid 12 to move to the open state. When the lid 12 is in the open state, the applicator storage space S2 is opened to the outside.

[0043] Next, as shown in Figure 6, for example, with the bottom wall 21 and the applicator P held between the fingers, the push-in projection 52 is pushed down through the applicator P. As a result, the valve member 45 is pushed down, causing the elastic piece 44 to elastically deform downward. This causes the valve member 45 to elastically displace downward relative to the inner tray 32. As a result, the opening / closing projection 53 retracts downward from the second through hole 75, and the powder storage space S1 and the applicator storage space S2 are connected through the second through hole 75 (the discharge valve 31 opens). When pushing down the push-in projection 52, it is preferable to push it down until the upper surface of the push-in projection 52 is at the same height as the upper surface of the partition wall 72 (until the applicator P bottoms out).

[0044] Next, with the discharge valve 31 in the open position (holding the bottom wall 21 and the applicator P between fingers), the powder container 1 is shaken, for example, in an up-and-down direction. As a result, with the first through-hole 74 and the second through-hole 75 blocked from above by the applicator P, the powder in the powder storage space S1 is stirred up within the powder storage space S1. Then, some of the powder in the powder storage space S1 moves towards the applicator storage space S2 through the through-hole 51a and the second through-hole 75, and adheres to the applicator P. After that, the user of the powder container 1 can take the applicator P out of the applicator storage space S2 and apply the powder attached to the applicator P to the part to be coated.

[0045] When the applicator P is removed from the applicator storage space S2, the pressing force acting on the valve member 45 via the push-in projection 52 is released. As a result, the valve member 45 moves upward relative to the partition wall 72 due to the biasing force of the elastic piece 44. This causes the opening / closing projection 53 to enter the second through-hole 75, thereby closing the second through-hole 75. Also, when the upper surface of the movable base 51 comes into contact with the lower surface of the partition wall 72, the first through-hole 74 is closed, for example by the hub portion 61. As a result, the discharge valve 31 is closed.

[0046] After using the applicator P (after applying the powder), the lid 12 is returned from the open state to the closed state. Specifically, with the applicator P stored in the applicator storage space S2, the lid 12 is rotated relative to the container body 11 toward the other side in the circumferential direction. As the lid 12 rotates, it moves downward relative to the container body 11. At this time, the lid 12 is lowered until the packing 26 contacts the outer flange portion 42. This returns the lid 12 to the closed state.

[0047] As described above, the powder container 1 of this embodiment comprises a container body 11, a discharge mechanism 13 that partitions the inside of the container body 11 vertically so that a powder storage space S1 for storing powder is formed between the container body 11 and the bottom wall 21 of the container body 11, and a lid 12 that forms an applicator storage space S2 for storing an applicator P between the discharge mechanism 13 and the lid, and is attached to the container body 11 so as to be able to open and close the upper end opening of the container body 11. The discharge mechanism 13 comprises a partition wall 72 having a first through hole 74 located in the center and a plurality of second through holes 75 located around the first through hole 74 through which powder can pass, and a valve member 45 that is provided in the powder storage space S1 so as to be elastically displaceable vertically relative to the partition wall 72. The valve member 45 includes a movable base 51 superimposed on the partition wall 72 below the partition wall 72, a push-in projection 52 extending upward from the movable base 51 and protruding above the partition wall 72 through the first through-hole 74, and a plurality of opening / closing projections 53 extending upward from the movable base 51 and opening and closing the second through-hole 75 individually in accordance with the vertical movement of the valve member 45. In this configuration, by pushing down the indentation projection 52 via the applicator P, the entire valve member 45 is elastically displaced downward, causing the opening / closing projection 53 to open the second through-hole 75 (the discharge valve 31 is in the open state). As a result, the powder storage space S1 and the applicator storage space S2 are connected through the second through-hole 75. In this state, by shaking the powder container 1, for example, in an up-and-down direction, the powder that has been stirred up in the powder storage space S1 adheres to the applicator P through the second through-hole 75. This makes it possible to remove the powder from the powder storage space S1. On the other hand, when the indentation force acting on the valve member 45 via the indentation projection 52 is released, the valve member 45 elastically returns upward relative to the partition wall 72. As a result, the opening / closing projection 53 closes the second through-hole 75. Consequently, communication between the powder storage space S1 and the applicator storage space S2 is blocked. In other words, in the powder container 1 of this embodiment, when not in use, the second through-hole 75 is closed by the opening / closing projection 53, which prevents powder from unexpectedly leaking out of the powder storage space S1 into the applicator storage space S2. In particular, in the powder container 1 of this embodiment, when the lid 12 is closed, the applicator storage space S2 is covered by the lid 12, so the indentation projection 52 is also covered by the lid 12. That is, when the lid 12 is closed, the indentation projection 52 is not exposed to the outside of the powder container 1, so it is possible to prevent the indentation projection 52 from being pressed unexpectedly when the powder container 1 is not in use. As a result, it is possible to more reliably prevent powder from unexpectedly leaking into the applicator storage space S2.

[0048] In the powder container 1 of this embodiment, the amount of protrusion of the push-in projection 52 from the movable base 51 is greater than the amount of protrusion of the opening / closing projection 53 from the movable base 51. This configuration allows the second through-hole 75 to be opened while minimizing the amount of pressure applied to the push-in projection 52. This improves operability.

[0049] In the powder container 1 of this embodiment, the movable base 51 comprises a hub portion 61 that overlaps with the first through hole 74 when viewed from above and is provided with a push-in projection 52, a rim portion 62 that surrounds the hub portion 61 when viewed from above and is provided with a plurality of spoke portions 63 that extend radially from the hub portion 61 to connect the hub portion 61 and the rim portion 62, and each spoke portion is provided with a plurality of opening and closing projections 53. The plurality of second through holes 75 are provided in groups along the spoke portions 63 at intervals, in positions that overlap with each of the plurality of spoke portions 63 when viewed from above and is provided with a plurality of second through holes 75. With this configuration, the pressing force acting on the push-in projection 52 is easily transmitted evenly to the opening / closing projection 53 via the hub portion 61 and the spoke portion 63. Therefore, the operational reliability of the discharge mechanism 13 can be improved.

[0050] In the powder container 1 of this embodiment, the upper surface of the spoke portion 63 is formed as an inclined surface that extends downward toward adjacent spoke portions 63. With this configuration, powder is less likely to get caught between the spoke portion 63 and the lower surface of the partition wall 72 during the transition of the discharge valve 31 from the open state to the closed state. This improves the operational reliability of the discharge mechanism 13.

[0051] In the powder container 1 of this embodiment, at least the hub portion 61 and the spoke portion 63 of the movable base 51 are provided with reinforcing portions 54 that protrude downward. This configuration suppresses deformation of the hub portion 61 and spoke portion 63 themselves due to the pressing force acting on the indentation projection 52, and makes the entire valve member 45 more susceptible to elastic displacement. As a result, the operational reliability of the discharge mechanism 13 can be improved.

[0052] In the powder container 1 of this embodiment, at least one of the opening / closing projection 53 and the second through hole 75 is formed in a tapered shape, with the diameter gradually increasing as it goes downwards. With this configuration, the opening / closing projection 53 easily enters the second through-hole 75 during the transition of the discharge valve 31 from the open state to the closed state. Furthermore, when the discharge valve 31 is in the closed state, it is easier to stabilize the contact point between the opening / closing projection 53 and the inner surface of the second through-hole 75. This improves the operational reliability of the discharge mechanism 13.

[0053] In the powder container 1 of this embodiment, the discharge mechanism 13 includes a discharge valve 31 fitted into the container peripheral wall 22, and an intermediate plate 32 fitted into a fitting cylinder 41 located radially outward and above the valve member 45 of the discharge valve 31. With this configuration, since the discharge valve 31 itself is directly attached to the container body 11, it is easy to ensure the mounting strength of the discharge valve 31 to the container body 11. This suppresses displacement of the discharge valve 31 caused by pressing the push-in projection 52, etc., and improves the operational reliability of the discharge mechanism 13.

[0054] (Second Embodiment) The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment described above in that the dispensing mechanism 13 is attached to the container body 11 via the inner tray 32. In the powder container 1 shown in Figure 7, the inner tray 32 comprises an upper mounting cylinder 100, an outer flange portion 101, a lower mounting cylinder 102, and a partition wall 72. The upper mounting cylinder 100 is positioned coaxially with the container axis O. The upper mounting cylinder 100 is fitted into the container peripheral wall 22. The outer flange portion 101 protrudes radially outward from the upper end edge of the upper mounting cylinder 100. The inner tray 32's downward movement relative to the container body 11 is restricted because the outer flange portion 101 abuts against the upper end edge of the container peripheral wall 22 from above.

[0055] The lower mounting cylinder 102 is positioned coaxially with the upper mounting cylinder 100 and extends downward from the upper mounting cylinder 100. A partition wall 72 is connected to the boundary between the upper mounting cylinder 100 and the lower mounting cylinder 102. The lower mounting cylinder 102 may be fitted into the container peripheral wall 22 together with the upper mounting cylinder 100, or it may be spaced apart from the inner surface of the container peripheral wall 22.

[0056] The discharge valve 31 comprises a fitting cylinder 41 and a valve member 45. The fitting cylinder 41 is fitted into the lower mounting cylinder 102 from below relative to the middle plate 32. The valve member 45 is connected to the upper and lower intermediate portion of the fitting cylinder 41.

[0057] In the powder container 1 of this embodiment, the discharge mechanism 13 includes a partition wall 72 and an inner tray 32 fitted into the container peripheral wall 22, and a discharge valve 31 having a valve member 45 and supported by the inner tray 32 below the partition wall 72. In this configuration, the surface of the dispensing mechanism 13 facing the applicator storage space S2 is formed only by the inner tray 32. This suppresses the occurrence of steps or other irregularities on the surface of the dispensing mechanism 13 facing the applicator storage space S2, thereby suppressing the residue of powder in the applicator storage space S2.

[0058] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. The present invention is not limited by the above description, but only by the appended claims. In the embodiments described above, the case in which the powder container 1 is formed in a circular shape in plan view was explained, but the configuration is not limited to this. The plan view shape of the powder container 1 can be changed as appropriate, such as to a polygonal shape. In the embodiment described above, a configuration was described in which the second through-holes 75 are arranged radially around the first through-hole 74, but the configuration is not limited to this. The second through-holes 75 can be provided in multiple locations around the first through-hole 74. In the above-described embodiment, a configuration in which the second through-hole 75 is formed in a tapered shape was explained, but the configuration is not limited to this. It is sufficient that at least one of the opening / closing projection 53 and the second through-hole 75 is formed in a tapered shape.

[0059] In the embodiments described above, the movable base 51 was described as having a configuration comprising a hub portion 61, a rim portion 62, and a spoke portion 63, but it is not limited to this configuration. The movable base 51 can be formed into any shape as long as it is configured to connect the powder containment space S1 and the second through hole 75 when the discharge valve 31 is in the open state. In the embodiment described above, a configuration was described in which the valve member 45 is elastically displaced vertically via the elastic piece 44, but the configuration is not limited to this. The valve member 45 may be connected via a hinge or the like.

[0060] In the above-described embodiment, a configuration was explained in which a through hole 51a is formed in the movable base 51 to connect the powder containment space S1 and the second through hole 75, but the configuration is not limited to this. When the discharge valve 31 is in the open state, if the second through hole 75 and the powder containment space S1 are in communication, for example, through the outside of the movable base 51, the through hole 51a is not an essential component. In the embodiment described above, a configuration was described in which one push-in projection 52 is arranged coaxially with the container axis O, but the configuration is not limited to this. Multiple push-in projections 52 may be provided.

[0061] Examples of the present invention are as follows: <1> A cylindrical container body with a bottom, A dispensing mechanism that partitions the inside of the container body vertically so that a powder-containing space for containing powder is formed between the bottom wall of the container body and the dispensing mechanism, The container comprises a lid that forms a space for housing an applicator between itself and the dispensing mechanism, and is attached to the container body so as to be able to open and close the upper opening of the container body, The aforementioned discharge mechanism is A partition wall having a first through-hole located in the center, and a plurality of second through-holes located around the first through-hole, through which powder can pass; The powder containment space includes a valve member that is elastically displaceable in the vertical direction relative to the partition wall, The valve member is Below the partition wall, a movable base is superimposed on the partition wall, A push-in projection extending upward from the movable base and protruding into the applicator housing space through the first through-hole, A powder container comprising a plurality of opening / closing protrusions that extend upward from the movable base and individually open and close the second through-holes in accordance with the vertical movement of the valve member. <2> The amount of protrusion of the push-in projection from the movable base is greater than the amount of protrusion of the opening / closing projection from the movable base. <1> The powder container described. <3> The aforementioned movable base is A hub portion that overlaps with the first through hole when viewed from above and below, and is provided with the push-in projection, A rim portion that surrounds the hub portion when viewed from above and below, It comprises a plurality of spokes that extend radially from the hub portion to connect the hub portion and the rim portion, each of which is provided with a plurality of opening and closing protrusions, The multiple second through holes are provided in groups along the spokes at intervals, in positions that overlap with each of the multiple spokes when viewed from above. <1> or <2> The powder container described. <4> The upper surface of the spoke portion is formed as an inclined surface that extends downward toward the adjacent spoke portion. <3> The powder container described. <5> Of the movable base, at least the hub portion and the spoke portion are provided with reinforcing portions that protrude downward. <3> or <4> The powder container described. <6> At least one of the opening / closing projection and the second through-hole is formed in a tapered shape, with the diameter gradually increasing as it extends downwards. <1> from <5> A powder container as described in any of the following. <7> The aforementioned discharge mechanism is Having the partition wall, the inner tray is fitted into the peripheral wall of the container body, The system includes a discharge valve having the valve member and supported by the inner tray below the partition wall. <1> from <6> A powder container as described in any of the following. [Explanation of symbols]

[0062] 1: Powder container 11: Container body 12: Lid 13:Discharge mechanism 21: Bottom wall 22: Container peripheral wall (peripheral wall) 31: Discharge valve 32: Medium Plate 45: Valve component 51: Movable base 52: Push-in projection 53: Opening and closing protrusion 54: Reinforcement section 61: Hub section 62: Rim section 63: Spoke section 72: Partition wall 74: First through hole 75: Second through hole P: Applicator

Claims

1. A cylindrical container body with a bottom, A dispensing mechanism that partitions the inside of the container body vertically so that a powder-containing space for containing powder is formed between the bottom wall of the container body and the dispensing mechanism, The container comprises a lid that forms a space for housing an applicator between itself and the dispensing mechanism, and is attached to the container body so as to be able to open and close the upper opening of the container body, The aforementioned discharge mechanism is A partition wall having a first through-hole located in the center, and a plurality of second through-holes located around the first through-hole, through which powder can pass; The powder containment space includes a valve member that is elastically displaceable in the vertical direction relative to the partition wall, The valve member is Below the partition wall, a movable base is superimposed on the partition wall, A push-in projection extending upward from the movable base and protruding into the applicator housing space through the first through-hole, A powder container comprising a plurality of opening / closing protrusions that extend upward from the movable base and individually open and close the second through-holes in accordance with the vertical movement of the valve member.

2. The powder container according to claim 1, wherein the amount of the push-in projection protruding from the movable base is greater than the amount of the opening / closing projection protruding from the movable base.

3. The aforementioned movable base is A hub portion that overlaps with the first through hole when viewed from above and below, and is provided with the push-in projection, A rim portion that surrounds the hub portion when viewed from above and below, It comprises a plurality of spokes that extend radially from the hub portion to connect the hub portion and the rim portion, each of which is provided with a plurality of opening and closing protrusions, The powder container according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the plurality of second through holes are provided in a plurality at intervals along the spoke portions, in positions that overlap with each of the plurality of spoke portions when viewed from the vertical direction.

4. The powder container according to claim 3, wherein the upper surface of the spoke portion is formed as an inclined surface that extends downward toward adjacent spoke portions.

5. The powder container according to claim 3, wherein at least the hub portion and the spoke portion of the movable base are provided with reinforcing portions that protrude downward.

6. The powder container according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein at least one of the opening / closing projection and the second through hole is formed in a tapered shape with a diameter that gradually increases as it extends downward.

7. The aforementioned discharge mechanism is Having the partition wall, the inner tray is fitted into the peripheral wall of the container body, The powder container according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising a discharge valve having the valve member and supported by the inner tray below the partition wall.

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